DTV and HDTV

There has been a lot of confusion regarding Digital TV (DTV) and HDTV.  DTV is basically an improvement over Analog, or the traditional TV.  With DTV, signals are encoded, transmitted, and decoded using digital methods (ones and zeros) as opposed to waves (for analog).  The result is a much better picture even with smaller TV screens. 

What about HDTV?  In its very basic sense, HDTV is the highest quality DTV.  The Advanced Television Standards Committee (ATSC) has laid out standards for DTV.  HDTV has the highest standards.

However, just because you have HDTV does not mean that you are going to get excellent video and sound.  This is dependent on two things.  First, the TV station has to be broadcasting the same quality video and sound signal.  That is, they have to follow the high-definition standard as well.  Otherwise, it will be just like watching on a regular TV.  Second, you have to have the proper equipment to receive and view the high-definition signal.